Spicy Garlic Chicken Fried Rice Quick and Tasty Meal

Are you craving a quick and tasty meal? Spicy Garlic Chicken Fried Rice is a burst of flavor in a bowl. This easy dish uses simple ingredients, like chicken and jasmine rice. With a kick from sriracha and fresh garlic, it will excite your taste buds. Read on to discover the step-by-step guide to whip up this delicious meal at home!

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

– 2 cups cooked jasmine rice

– 1 pound chicken breast, diced

– 4 cloves garlic, minced

Additional Ingredients

– 1 small onion, finely chopped

– 1 cup mixed vegetables

– 2-3 tablespoons soy sauce

Seasonings and Garnish

– 1 teaspoon sriracha sauce

– 2 large eggs, lightly beaten

– Salt and pepper to taste

The main ingredients for this dish include cooked jasmine rice, diced chicken, and minced garlic. Using jasmine rice gives the fried rice a lovely aroma and a fluffy texture. The chicken provides protein, making it a filling meal. Garlic adds a strong, savory flavor.

Next, we have additional ingredients. They include finely chopped onion, mixed vegetables, and soy sauce. The onion brings sweetness and depth. Mixed vegetables add color and nutrition. Soy sauce gives a salty, umami flavor that ties everything together.

Lastly, we have the seasonings and garnish. Sriracha adds heat, while eggs contribute creaminess and richness. Salt and pepper enhance all the flavors. Together, these ingredients create a vibrant and tasty dish.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Cooking the Chicken

– Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.

– Add 1 pound of diced chicken breast and season with salt and pepper.

– Cook the chicken for 5 to 7 minutes until it turns golden brown and is no longer pink.

– Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside on a plate.

Sautéing Aromatics

– In the same skillet, add another tablespoon of vegetable oil.

– Add 1 small finely chopped onion and 4 minced garlic cloves.

– Sauté for about 2 minutes until the onion is translucent and the garlic smells great.

– Be careful not to let the garlic brown too much.

Preparing the Fried Rice

– Stir in 1 cup of mixed vegetables to the skillet.

– Cook for 2 to 3 minutes until they are heated through and slightly tender.

– Push the vegetable mix to one side and add the last tablespoon of oil.

– Pour in 2 lightly beaten eggs and let them cook for a moment.

– Scramble the eggs until fully cooked, then mix with the vegetables.

Final Assembly

– Add 2 cups of cooked jasmine rice to the skillet, along with the chicken.

– Pour in 2 to 3 tablespoons of soy sauce and 1 teaspoon of sriracha.

– Toss everything together for 3 to 4 minutes until well combined and heated through.

– Taste the fried rice and adjust with more salt, pepper, or sriracha for extra heat.

– Before serving, fold in sliced green onions for a fresh touch.

Tips & Tricks

Rice Preparation Tips

Using the right rice is key for great fried rice. I recommend using jasmine rice. Refrigerate your cooked rice overnight. This step helps to dry out the rice. Dry rice fries better and won’t clump together. You can also use day-old rice. It keeps the texture light and fluffy.

Cooking Tips

Heat settings matter. Use medium-high heat when cooking. This helps to cook the chicken fast and evenly. When adding garlic, watch it closely. Burnt garlic can make your dish bitter. Sauté garlic until it’s just fragrant. This takes about two minutes.

Serving Suggestions

Presentation can make a meal feel special. Serve the fried rice in colorful bowls. Garnish with sliced green onions on top. A drizzle of sriracha adds a fun pop of color. You can pair this dish with a side salad. It balances flavors and adds crunch. Enjoy your meal with a cold drink, like iced tea, for a perfect match.

Variations

Protein Variations

You can swap chicken for shrimp or tofu. Both options add unique flavors. Shrimp cooks quickly and brings a nice sweetness. Tofu is great for a plant-based meal. Use firm tofu, press it to remove water, and cut it into cubes. You can also use leftover cooked meats. Any roast chicken or pork works well. This saves time and reduces waste.

Spiciness Levels

Adjust the sriracha to your liking. Start with one teaspoon for a mild kick. If you want more heat, add more sriracha gradually. You can also use different chili sauces. Try sambal oelek or gochujang for different flavors. Each sauce has a unique taste that can change your dish.

Vegetable Variations

Adding seasonal vegetables makes this dish even better. Use fresh bell peppers, zucchini, or snap peas. They add color and crunch. Mixing in leafy greens like spinach or kale is also a great idea. These greens pack nutrients and cook down nicely. Just stir them in at the end until they wilt.

Storage Info

Refrigeration Guidelines

To store leftover fried rice, let it cool first. Transfer it to an airtight container. Place the container in the fridge. The fried rice stays fresh for up to three days. When reheating, add a splash of water to keep it moist. Heat it in a skillet over medium heat. Stir often until it’s hot. You can also use the microwave. Cover the bowl loosely to avoid splatter. Heat for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through.

Freezing Instructions

If you want to freeze fried rice, let it cool completely. Portion it into freezer bags or containers. Squeeze out the air before sealing. This helps prevent freezer burn. Fried rice can last up to three months in the freezer. When you’re ready to eat, take it out and thaw it in the fridge overnight. To reheat, use a skillet or microwave. Add a bit of water if it seems dry. Heat until hot, stirring well. Enjoy your meal anytime!

FAQs

Can I make Spicy Garlic Chicken Fried Rice ahead of time?

Yes, you can make this dish ahead. Prepare the rice and chicken. Store them in separate containers. Keep the cooked rice in the fridge for up to four days. For best taste, use it within two days. Reheat the rice before adding it to the skillet. This way, the rice stays fluffy and tasty.

What type of rice is best for fried rice?

Jasmine rice is my top choice. It has a great texture and flavor. Basmati rice works too, but it can be a bit sticky. You can also use long-grain rice. Avoid short-grain rice; it gets too sticky. Day-old rice is best. It dries out and becomes perfect for frying.

How to make this recipe vegetarian?

To make it vegetarian, skip the chicken. Use tofu instead or add more veggies. Try mushrooms or bell peppers for texture. Replace chicken broth with vegetable broth if you want more flavor. You can use soy sauce and sriracha to keep the taste bold.

What can I serve with Spicy Garlic Chicken Fried Rice?

Pair it with a fresh salad or spring rolls. A light soup, like egg drop soup, works well too. Serve a cold drink, like iced tea or lemonade. They balance the heat and make a nice meal. Enjoy your tasty fried rice with these sides for a complete meal!

This blog post covered how to make Spicy Garlic Chicken Fried Rice from scratch. We discussed key ingredients like rice, chicken, and vegetables, along with cooking and storage tips. Remember, using day-old rice gives the best texture. You can adjust spice levels and swap proteins for your taste. Making this dish can be fun and easy. Enjoy your flavorful creation and share it with family and friends. With practice, you’ll master it in no time. Get cooking!